Salem is the fourth largest city in Tamil Nādu. The city is surrounded by hills. In fact, the name Salem is derived from the word “salam” meaning an area surrounded by mountains. Salem is also known as the “Steel City and “Mango City”.
The history of Salem dates back tothe third century B.C. The city was a part of the Pandya, Pallava, and VijayanagaraEmpires.After the defeat of Tipu Sultan in the Third Anglo-Mysore War in 1792, the State of Mysore’s border was re-aligned, and the British formed the Salem district under Madras Presidency.
Numerous forts and temples in the city date back to a previous era.
Salem is a Geologist’s paradise and is rich in a variety of important minerals like Magnesite, Dunite, Bauxite, Limestone, Iron ore, Quartz, Feldspar Soapstone, Granites, etc.
As a district, Salem has its significance in various aspects.Salem is one of the major producers of traditional silver anklets, which are popular among women. Salem is a major textile center in Tamil Nadu and also houses a number of sago factories.